1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 4,921 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (309 HP) has 256 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 271 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Fiat 131. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (750 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 656 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (94 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1979 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1979 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 131 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 4921 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 309 HP |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 750 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1236 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 3010 mm |
